Bonanza High School band to perform in Nevada Day Parade for first time thanks to director, former UNR marching band participant
When Diego Fuentez first moved to Reno to attend the University of Nevada in 2017, he had never really heard of the Nevada Day Parade.
He had been living in Vegas prior to his move to the north, and was impressed by the university’s diverse opportunities in music.
He joined the marching band, and experienced the Nevada Day Parade firsthand without realizing the scope of the day.
“I thought, wow, this is extremely cool,” Fuentez said. “I was able to do it once, but it made a lasting impression.”
Following graduation, Fuentez began working at Title 1 schools as part of his education internship, including Hug High School and Pine Middle School.
When it came time to choose his permanent school, Fuentez knew he wanted to stay with Tier 1 schools, and began working at Bonanza High School in las Vegas as the Director of Bands and AP Music Theory.
“I’m so passionate about it because I believe everyone deserves an equitable education, especially in performing arts,” Fuentez said. “I wanted to work and serve the students the best I can, and I was thrilled when the opportunity at Bonanza High School opened up.”
Before Fuentez took over, students in the band and music departments had to undergo a revolving door of instructors, with none staying more than a year at a time.
“This is my second year in the program, and I want to make sure that I”m here to stay for a good long while so the kids can enjoy the time.”
Fuentez knew right away he wanted to bring his students north to the Nevada Day Parade.
“About three-quarters of my students have never even left Vegas,” Fuentez said. “I wanted to give them the opportunity to open up the world, and especially to see Tahoe; it was my favorite thing about living in Reno.”
Students were able to do just that as they are staying overnight in the Lake Tahoe area on Friday before heading back down the mountain for the parade.
“At first, my students didn’t really understand; they thought ‘Okay Mr. Fuentez, another parade,’” Fuentez said. “But once they understood the scope and scale of it, and once I shared my photos with them from when I was in the marching band, then they started really getting excited.”
Fuentez said that in order to make it to the parade, they had to fundraise extensively, and begged administration for their support.
“To my knowledge, Bonanza has never participated in the Nevada Day Parade,” Fuetnez said. “I’m extremely proud of these kids; they’ve shown so much growth and eagerness to go above and beyond their ability to actually take on this challenge head on.”
Keep your eyes peeled tomorrow during the Nevada Day Parade, and give the Bonanza High School marching band an extra cheer!